WIDEWATER STATE PARK
On a peninsula where Aquia Creek and the Potomac River meet, Widewater provides access to both bodies of water. The park lies on non-contiguous parcels interspersed by private property. Two parcels are open for access. The park has a visitor center, picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, canoe-kayak launches and hiking trails. The park highlights the areas natural, historic and recreational resources.
The state acquired this land from Dominion Resources in 2006. Dominion originally planned on using the site for an electrical generation facility. A master plan for the park was written in 2008. An advisory committee comprised of Stafford County residents, adjacent landowners, government officials, user groups and local businesses crafted the plan with the guidance of the public. The committee defined goals, objectives and a park purpose statement for the park.
The purpose of Widewater State Park is to provide premier water and land-based educational outdoor recreational opportunities while protecting and interpreting the unique natural, historical, and cultural resources of the peninsula of land cradled between Aquia Creek and the Potomac River in Stafford County.
The visitor center has displays of the parks natural and historical features. The park has exhibits about John Smith and the Indians of the Chesapeake region, the glory days of fishing on the Potomac, Langleys early experiments with aircraft launched from boats, local artist Palmer Hayden, and the Ghost Fleet of Widewater and Mallows Bay. Additionally, the parks diverse habitats, marshes, forest types and waterfront allow for much environmental education and nature study.
The Potomac River is an excellent largemouth bass fishery. The river is tidal here, and the water is considered fresh. Other sport fish include catfish, perch and striped bass. A Virginia or Maryland freshwater fishing license is required when fishing on the main stem of the Potomac River. The park also honors Potomac River Fisheries Commission licenses. A Virginia freshwater fishing license is required when fishing on Aquia Creek or in Long Pond.
Widewater State Park is located near Dumfries, Fredericksburg and Indian Head
The park has four picnic shelters, two on each of the developed parcels. Each shelter has access to parking, restrooms and a playground.
Cycling enthusiasts can explore the park's 2.5-mile multi-use trail, suitable for all skill levels.
However, be aware that this path is shared with pedestrians and runners too.
Always remember to wear a helmet while biking in the park area for safety reasons.
The terrain varies from flat paved surfaces to slightly hilly areas offering different experiences on your ride.
Please note there are no bike rental facilities available within the vicinity of this location at present time.
Remember: respect wildlife you may encounter along trails - keep distance and do not feed them.
There are two 1-mile hiking trails. Long Pond Trail is near the visitor center. The trail makes a wide loop around the visitor center and runs along sections of Aquia Creek and Long Pond. Holly Marsh Trail connects with Long Pond Trail to provide access to the Potomac Picnic Area. The trail borders Holly Marsh. It is a lovely wooded hike that provides a striking view of the Potomac near its end/start point. Hiking in areas under construction is prohibited.
The park offers birding opportunities with species like bald eagles, ospreys and various waterfowl. Birdwatchers can also spot woodland birds such as warblers, woodpeckers and thrushes. The area is part of the Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail system for guided exploration.
Newton D R Fishing
256 Newton Rd
Fredericksburg, VA
(540) 373-0465
LC Country Store & More
1741 Brooke Rd
Stafford, VA
(540) 659-6006
Aquia Creek Outfitters
3306 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Stafford, VA
(540) 659-0852
Widewater State Park is in northeastern Stafford County, about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C., and 20 miles northeast of Fredericksburg. From I-95, take Aquia Harbor Exit 143A, then go north on U.S. 1. Jefferson Davis Hwy. Turn right onto Telegraph Rd Route 637, and then onto Widewater Rd. Route 611. Widewater Rd. turns into Arkendale Rd. Route 633 after about four miles. Turn left onto Brent Point Rd. Route 658.